Summer Bar

Popsicles aren't just for kids anymore.

Nothing says nostalgia like a popsicle on a hot summer day. And if you’re interested in revisiting those long-lost summer memories but are concerned that your tastebuds have outgrown the Big Stick, we have good news: popsicles are cooler than ever, thanks to innovative vendors that are pushing the proverbial wrapper. You can even hum the ice cream truck tune to yourself as you reminisce about popsicles past while enjoying these tasty ones in the present. Here are Coast’s favorite local licks.

Neveria Ricas NievesWHAT IT’S ABOUT A haven for lovers of milk- and water-based bars and scooped ice cream, Neveria Ricas Nieves takes the freshest flavors of the season and transforms them into something cold, fruity and refreshing. The family-owned store in Garden Grove is reasonably priced and makes everything from scratch – two very important ingredients for a successful popsicle.WHAT’S COOL The classic water-based strawberry bar tastes like summer, which is but one of the reasons we love it. It’s also seedless – a major plus for those who don’t carry floss around – like us.:: 12091 Trask Ave., Garden Grove

Front Porch PopsWHAT IT’S ABOUT When life gave her lemons, Erin Whitcomb made strawberry lemonade popsicles. In 2011, after a stint of unemployment, Whitcomb turned her creative energy and passion for cooking to an unlikely place: a popcart, which she uses to sell her ice pops made with only top-notch ingredients. Unique flavors such as balsamic glazed strawberry creamsicle and roasted plum black pepper are just a couple. Find them at farmer’s markets.WHAT’S COOL The lemon raspberry cheesecake popsicle takes all the best parts of the actual dessert and converts it into a frozen version – a version we may like better than the original. 714.614.0857 :: frontporchpops.com

Neveria La Flor de MexicoWHAT IT’S ABOUT The homemade, artisanal approach to food may be relatively new to the restaurant industry, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary for Neveria La Flor de Mexico, a small, friendly ice cream and popsicle shop in Stanton. A plethora of flavors both predictable (banana) and adventurous (pineapple with chile) keep things interesting. WHAT’S COOL For a true trip down memory lane, try the bubble gum popsicle, a creamy blue frozen treat that has all the bubble gum flavor without the cold gumballs to gnaw through.7151 Katella Ave., Stanton :: 714.761.2813